Isle of Wight pub knows live music is the food of love

It was nominated by Anita Morris, who loves the fact the landlords, Tim Bailey and Julie Higginson, go out of their way to support and encourage local musicians.

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Anita said: “Two years ago I asked if they would let me start up a folk and music night in their pub.

“They didn’t know me, but straight away they threw themselves into making us folkies welcome.

“The first lockdown came and as soon as they opened up, they built a staging area outside, put up lights and even provided giant umbrellas for when the rain came down.

“Tim and Julie and their team ensured we were protected and cared for.

“When we were allowed inside, again they made sure social distancing was paramount and we felt protected.”

Tim Bailey and Julie Higginson, pictured outside The Waverley in 2015.

Anita said the team at The Waverley provide superb meals, with a good and varied choice of dishes, and it is also known for its breakfasts.

She believes the pub has adapted to Covid precautions well. She said there is hand sanitiser on entering and leaving The Waverley, plus a one way system through the building and everyone has to register.

Customers have to be seated before masks removed, the bar staff are protected by screens and personal masks, it’s table service only with correct distances between tables and a maximum of six at a table.

She said she loved the way the staff have the ability to make you feel special. “I like it that they know our club members’ names and treat us as if we are an extended family.

“On a Saturday morning, Keith greets us with a smile and tea and coffee at the ready. There is fabulous marmalade by Tim’s mum and a lovely breakfast.

“Wednesday evenings when you walk in, since Covid, members have a regular table they sit at and Paige makes sure each person is welcome and sat down in a safe environment.”

The Waverley shares its name with the iconic paddle steamer and Tim and Julie and all customers worked hard to raise money to help ensure the historic ship could have a new boiler fitted.

The Waverley team are particularly well known for helping local charitable causes and regularly host quizzes and events for Friends of the Animals and Sight For Wight.

Anita concluded: “The Waverley has become one of the best folk and music places on our lovely Island. Whether you have never performed before, or you are a professional musician, The Waverley will welcome you."

Tim Bailey, from The Waverley, said he and Julie were now in their seventh year at the pub and loved being at the heart of the community.

Covid has meant they have taken out the pool table to create a snug inside the pub.

Various local people volunteered their time to help Tim and Julie build the music marquee on the car park, which is heated and lit and has a stage and eight large tables inside — all set well apart.

Music in the marquee at The Waverley, Carisbrooke.

There is live music planned every Saturday for the next few weeks and The Waverley has also got its Christmas menu on between now and December 24 — the Christmas meal must be booked in advance.

Tim and Julie were also due to get married in May, but Covid got in the way and they have now postponed their big day until May 2021.

Is your local pub considered the heart of the community?

Our Pub of the Week feature aims to recognise local places which have gone above and beyond the norm during the past year.

Why not nominate the local pub which has brought light to your life during these difficult times?